Millions of Americans Lose SNAP Benefits Amid New Federal Work Rules

Millions face food insecurity as new federal rules cut SNAP benefits. Experts warn of rising hardship.

September 30, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Kenosha, Wisconsin — Lori Covelli, a 53-year-old unemployed social worker in Kenosha, Wisconsin, lost her $760 monthly food stamp benefits after failing to meet the program’s work requirements. She had hoped to regain aid on her 54th birthday, but a new law extended the work requirement to age 64, leaving her without support.

Covelli received a letter this summer informing her that under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, signed by President Trump in July 2025, the work requirement now applies to individuals up to age 64. She said she is struggling to find employment and worries about how to afford basic necessities like groceries and utilities.

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Experts say the changes are creating widespread hardship. A recent analysis by the Food Research & Action Center (FRAC) found that about 5.7 million people have lost SNAP benefits since the law was enacted. The program’s enrollment has dropped to its lowest level since 2019, with more people expected to leave in the coming months due to stricter work rules and higher administrative costs for states.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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